Choosing a printer is something that has become increasingly hard to do in the last few years thanks to significant changes and advances in technology. There are numerous different things you have to consider when picking – here are a few things to watch out for.
Costs
Printers may often come in at a low price initially and this is because many manufacturers sell them at a cost price and sometimes even below this. However, this should in no way be the determining factor for you choosing a printer. Although the inkjet or laser printer may be cheap, the disposables such as the cartridges may not be. There is a well renowned correlation between the cost of a printer and the price of the disposables. Many more costly printers end up costing less in the long run as the toner or inkjet cartridges are less in price.
Whether you are using Epson sx425w ink or ink from a Kodak, do some online checking before you purchase the printer. Remember though if the machine seems low in price for its spec, you may be ripped off when it comes to the cartridges, so it’s always worth checking.
Wireless
One of the big changes that has occurred in printing in the last few years has been the emergence of wireless printing. Unlike, a few years ago when a printer had to be attached by a cable to a computer, printers can now print remotely once connected to a Wi-Fi network.
The other thing you should know is that you don’t even have to be in the room anymore, or for that matter even in the country. Printers now use cloud printing techniques meaning you can print from anywhere in the world on your home machines once you have a network. You can also do so from apps on mobile devices, meaning that printing from iPhones, iPads and smart devices can be done from the palm of your hand – a real lifting in the limitations on printers.
LCD and Software
Many printer nowadays come with LCD screens and all sorts of software for editing on the go. This means that it is now possible to not only send to a printer without a PC, but also to edit images on the printer screen too. Many machines now have processors of the size computers had less than a decade ago. These allow for a whole array of tasks to take place on more complex printers. This can be a great time saving benefit.
SD slots
Of course, many printers in even the budget category nowadays come with SD and USB slots, allowing you to transfer prints without the need of a device. You simply place in your storage device to and print from it without the need for a machine.
Choosing a printer, whether it uses Epson sx425w ink, Lexmark ink or otherwise should take all of these factors into account. By doing so you can be assured you have a good machine that will last the test of time and not cost you a bomb.
Citations:
- Photograph by Richard Broderick (via Flickr) [CC BY-SA 2.0]
For an excellent selection of Epson sx425w ink head to the wonderful online store of Cartridges Direct UK, home to all your cartridge needs.